They are tasty fresh, recently picked off the tree, or processed in compotes. However, there are other ways to use them. For example, dried pears are amazing. Fruits of almost all varieties are suitable for drying, and the advantage is that you can indulge in processed fruits at any time. They taste best after drying the fruits, which were slightly bitter before processing.
Pears are common fruits in mild climates and can be found in both older and modern gardens alongside apple trees. There are numerous pear varieties to choose from, with options available for summer, fall, or winter harvests. In the past, there was even a pear breeding frenzy, similar to the tulip mania, with a vast number of varieties added in the 19th century. Interestingly, although this fruit tree thrives best in lower, warmer locations, it also provides a harvest in higher locations. However, not all varieties thrive in the same conditions. Pears on the southern or southeastern slopes provide the richest harvest. In addition to the traditional, pear trees can also have non-traditional shapes, for example, the green wall shape (palmette) is riveting. Pears growing thanks to the solid construction of the facade can be seen in many towns or villages in the Alpine landscapes.
Valuable Nutrients
When it comes to nutrition, pears are among the most valuable fruits. Pears are known for their delicious and sweet flesh, which is rich in water, trace elements, and minerals, including potassium, calcium, and phosphorus. Pears are also packed with Vitamin C and B. It’s worth noting that a single pear fruit provides almost 20 percent of an adult’s recommended daily fiber intake. And this is one of the important reasons why this fruit should be part of the normal diet. Pears are a delicious refreshment and treat, but they must be picked at the right time, otherwise they may not taste good. As soon as they are harvested, they should be consumed or processed. This applies mainly to summer and fall varieties.
Did you know that fruits should only be harvested for consumption when the seeds get darker? You can determine by cutting open one of the fallen fruits. However, if you decide to store the fruits, they should be harvested earlier, at the stage when the fruits are easily released from the tree. It is better to leave the fruits of winter varieties on the trees as long as possible. When the skin changes from green to yellow, they are ready to be harvested. In a dark and cold cellar, their unmistakable aroma is then fully developed, the flesh softens and acquires a pleasant smooth consistency. They can be stored for four to six weeks. However, they should not be in one space together with apples and potatoes because their ripening and taste of the pulp may be affected.
Pears are considered a delicacy by food enthusiasts, especially when prepared in unique ways. There are numerous varieties of pears that connoisseurs seek out for their unconventional recipes. However, finding a wide range of pear varieties for sale is not common.
Many Options
Pears are eaten significantly less than apples, which is a pity. Pears can be enjoyed not only raw but also prepared in various ways. You can use pears to make a variety of desserts, casseroles, and soft and alcoholic drinks. They can be baked, poached, preserved, and used for making sauces, non-traditional soups, compotes, side dishes, and delicacies. Winter varieties are especially suitable for making non-traditional soups. Pear jam and lemonade taste great too. Try them with fruit salads, but also with meat and cheese or even with savory dishes.
Text: Daniel Košťál, photo: Pixabay
